Ernest Charles Stone

Ernest "Ernie" Stone went home to be with his beloved Savior on December 25th, 2021. He was born Ernest Charles Brown on July 29th, 1949 in Randolph, Vermont. His last name was changed when he was adopted by his stepfather, Earl E. Stone.

After graduating from Hopkinson High School in 1967, Ernie joined the Navy and served on a repair ship in the Philippine Sea during the Vietnam War. He met Jesus in the service and dedicated the rest of his life to the ministry. He earned a BA in Bible from Southern California College, and his MA in Theological Studies at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Later he earned his teaching credential from Vanguard University.

Over his lifetime, Ernie worked as a pastor, church planter, missionary, counselor, mentor, teacher, school principal and administrator. Whether speaking from a pulpit, a classroom, or just next to a friend with a cup of coffee, Ernie's passion was to help people know God and make him known, and to equip them to use the gifts and callings that God had given them. He served with multiple churches, Christian schools, and ministries over the years, both in America and overseas. He often generously donated his time or funds to support missionaries, rescue missions, addiction recovery programs, and pregnancy resource centers.

In college Ernie met his wife, Glynna Lee Beeler, and they married on December 19th, 1974. For 47 years, they labored in ministry together and raised four children, in addition to hosting foster children and many international exchange students. After serving for 18 years with New Hope Christian School in Grants Pass, Ernie decided to retire, although he still worked part time as a tutor and volunteered with Vineyard Christian Fellowship and various local ministries.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Theresa and brother, Roland. He is survived by his beloved wife, Glynna, his sister Juanita, his four children, Rachel, Tim, Barocha and Caleb, and eight grandchildren: Asaph, Jirah, Haddie, Boaz, Eva, Amanda, Bethany, and Cassie.

A memorial service will be held at 10am, Saturday, January 15th at River Valley Church, 405 NE 6th St, Grants Pass, OR 97526. All friends and family are welcome to attend. Guests are encouraged to bring finger foods to share at the reception following. The family has provided a YouTube live stream link below.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to:

New Hope Christian School, 5961 New Hope Rd, Grants Pass, OR 97527, or

Vineyard Christian School, 275 Potts Way, Grants Pass, OR 97526.

Cards of condolence can be sent to: Glynna Stone, P.O. Box 1785, Grants Pass, OR 97528.